Marcos Ambrose: Tasmanian Devil, Devil Racer--a reference to the cartoon character the Tasmanian Devil (Marcos is a native of Tasmania, Australia).

Tony Stewart:Smoke--originally referred to his tendency to "smoke" (slip) the right rear tire of his sprint car. Later referred to his IndyCar team's tendency to blow engines. Can also refer to his fiery disposition.

The Columbus Comet--Tony grew up in Columbus, Indiana.

The Rushville Rocket--Tony first raced out of (read: was billed from) Rushville, Indiana.

Later version of the "Rowdy" Truck

Kyle Busch: Rowdy--while it applies to his aggressive driving style, the true origin is a bit more complicated. When Kyle returned to the Truck Series, it was with Billy Ballew Motorsports, who fielded the #51 truck. At that time, Bobby Hamilton Sr. was sidelined battling cancer, so as a tribute to him, Ballew & Busch painted the truck as a replica of the #51 Exxon car from "Days of Thunder". Bobby's first Cup experiences were driving the movie car, which had "Rowdy" above the driver-side window, in reference to character Rowdy Burns. The truck also had "Rowdy" above the driver-side window, and the nickname stuck.

Kevin Harvick: Happy--given to him early in his career for his omnipresent smile, though a bit ironic based on his fiery attitude on and off the track. A smiley-face is used for his pit-board.

The Bakersfield Basher--refers both to Kevin's hometown of Bakersfield, California, and his willingness to "throw down" in the pits (Kevin, for the record, was a wrestler in high school).

Mr. Where Did He Come From--bestowed by Mike Joy for Kevin's tendency to come on strong late in the race.

The Closer--see above.

2.9--When Kevin made it to Cup, it was under very difficult circumstances, "replacing" the legendary Dale Earnhardt Sr. In fact, it was by mutual decision that the famous 3 car was renumbered as 29 for Harvick. Frequently, a small piece of tape was placed between the 2 and 9, reading "2.9" as in "close to the 3". Later, it came to summarize Harvick's job stepping into Dale Sr.'s old ride--he isn't the 3, but he's pretty darn close.

Jeff Burton

Jeff Burton: The Mayor--Jeff is well-respected (and well-spoken) in the garage, and is frequently said to be a natural for future public office.

The Ice Man--as a publicity stunt, Humpy Wheeler trucked in a huge block of ice for an open testing session at Charlotte Motor Speedway on a blisteringly hot day. Terry was photographed sitting on it, and the name stuck. In later years, it came to also represent his coolness under pressure.

J.J. Yeley: contrary to popular belief, "J.J." is NOT Mr. Yeley's first name--its Christopher. J.J. comes as a tribute to his father Jimmy and uncle Jack.